Hepatoblastoma

What is Hepatoblastoma?Hepatoblastoma is a solid tumour cancer of the liver. This primary liver tumour, which accounts for half of all liver tumours in children, is rare. It occurs slightly more often in boys than girls. Hepatoblastoma is predominantly found in preschool aged children. Half of all patients are diagnosed in their first year of life, with the majority of patients being diagnosed by their third birthday. Most hepatoblastoma tumours originate in the right lobe of the liver. Hepatoblastoma cancer cells can spread to other areas of the body. The most common sites are the lungs, into the abdomen and abdominal structures, and rarely to bone, the central nervous system, and the bone marrow.Signs and symptomsHepatoblastoma usually presents as a lump in the tummy. Other symptoms include: · poor appetite · weight loss · lethargy · fever · vomiting · jaundice.How is hepatoblastoma diagnosed?In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for hepatoblastoma may include:

biopsy - a sample of tissue is removed from the tumour and examined under a microscope.

complete blood count (CBC) - a measurement of size, number, and maturity of different blood cells in a specific volume of blood.

computed tomography scan (Also called a CT or CAT scan.) - a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs.

magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs & structures in the body.

ultrasound - a diagnostic imaging technique which uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels.

bone scans - pictures or x-rays taken of the bone after a dye has been injected that is absorbed by bone tissue. These are used to detect tumours and bone abnormalities.

Serum Tumor Marker Tests: Hepatoblastoma often produces a protein which can be detected in the blood. Levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) can be used as a way to determine whether the tumour is responding to treatment (AFP levels decrease), whether there is no evidence of disease, or if there is an indication of relapse (increased levels of AFP).Chemotherapy Drugs Hepatoblastoma responds well to chemotherapy agents when used to shrink tumours prior to surgery. Chemotherapy agents include cisplatin, fluorouracil, doxorubicin, and vincristine. Other possible agents used are ifosfamide, dactinomycin, and etoposide.Incidence · Liver tumours account for 0.5-2 percent paediatric tumours and are the tenth most frequent tumours in children. · Hepatoblastoma has an incidence of 0.9 per 1 million children.